How to Easily Check Automotive Fuses: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to check automotive fuses without removing them

If you suspect a blown or overloaded automotive fuse you can check them visually by pulling each one out and examining it. But that’s the slow way. The faster way is to use an automotive test light or a digital multimeter. I’ll show you how to check automotive fuses without removing them.

Test an automotive fuse with a multimeter

All fuses are built with test points. When you turn your key to the run position, one side of each fuse has battery voltage. To test using a multimeter set your meter to DC volts. The black lead to a good ground. Then use the red lead to test each test point on each fuse. You should see battery voltage on both test points if the fuse is good

Test a fuse using an automotive test light

To test a fuse using an automotive test light start by connecting the ground clamp to either the battery negative or a good ground near the fuse box. Then touch the test probe to each test point on each views you want to test. If the fuse is good the light will glow on both sides of the fuse.

To check a fuse visually

A fuse is built using a metal link designed to melt when the current exceeds the fuses rating. Look at the image below and you can see the intact center element of a good fuse and the melted portion on the blown fuse.

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